League of Friends Garden Party

"A WONDERFUL social occasion," is how Bexhill Hospital League of Friends treasurer Robin Barnett described their annual Garden Party held in the grounds of Bexhill Hospital on Saturday.

And, despite a few ominous looking black clouds, the rain held off and once again this popular social event was well supported and raised over four and a half thousand pounds.

The proceedings got off to full swing after being officially opened by newly appointed Bexhill Town Mayor Bridget George and League of Friends Chairman Stuart Earl and Cllr George praised the dedication and work of the Friends.

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The Mayor said: "Hospitals have been my life's passion and the League of Friends are marvellous. What they achieve is wonderful and we are very lucky to have such a good organisation here in Bexhill."

And the invitation from Stuart Earl was simple:

" All the volunteers and stall holders have given their time and produce so please give generously."

As always the Friend's had put together an extensive programme of events and entertainment to keep the crowds happy, including 'music for your pleasure' provided by Little Common British Legion Band and the Eastbourne Pipe Band.

Displays were provided by South East Coast Ambulance Service, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Sussex Police, Her Majesty's Coastguard, Bexhill Rowing Club, Cuddle Bunnies and 1066 Le Roc Modern Jive, with Bexhill Photographic supporting the Baby Show.

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Stunning cars, provided by Bexhill 100 club, were available to be viewed and stalls had much to offer including hand made crafts, fancy goods, plant and bottle stalls, jewellery, books, DVD's and videos, along with well-stocked raffles and tombola's.

Sizzling burgers and hot dogs on the barbecue kept the hunger pangs at bay, and for those wishing to partake of a dessert, delicious fresh strawberries and cream were available, along with ice creams and teas kindly served by the Royal Sovereign Light Lodge Ladies Charity Section.

Local family run business, Witham Brothers removals did a grand job collecting and returning tables and chairs, which had been kindly loaned, donating their services free of charge.

The chilly weather didn't prevent the many who supported the event from having a good time and generously digging deep into their pockets.

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Treasurer Robin said: "Considering it was quite a cool day we had a good turnout. It's a wonderful social occasion that enables the public to visit the hospital and see some of the work that the League of Friends does. It was a marvellous contribution all round and we were very pleased to have raised nearly four and a half thousand pounds."

Founded in 1951, the Bexhill Hospital League of Friends are a registered charity, well-known in the local area for the good work they do, raising funds throughout the year to purchase much needed medical equipment, which recently included a new scanner and five state of the art beds for the ICU at the Conquest hospital.

Chairman Stuart Earl said: "Nothing is perfect in our Health Service, however we should appreciate just how lucky we are to still have many much needed services on our doorstep, many of which receive direct support from the Friends. All equipment in today's technological world costs huge money and would not generally be affordable without our intervention."

He added: "I would like to thank every volunteer and all the loyal supporters of the league."

The Friends always welcome new members. For further information contact Rita Ward on (01424) 210910.